An Unforgettable Journey Into Darkness

Read Time:3 Minute, 15 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
When Evil Lurks (Cuando acecha la maldad)
–

Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 39m
Director(s): Demián Rugna
Writer(s): Demián Rugna
Cast: Ezequiel Rodríguez, Demián Salomón, Silvina Sabater, Virginia Garofalo, Paula Rubinsztein, Luis Dziembrowski
Language: Spanish with English subtitles
Where To Watch: streaming on Shudder on October 27, 2023

RAVING REVIEW: If you thought you knew what spine-chilling was, think again. Director/Writer Demián Rugna, previously acclaimed for TERRIFIED, returns, and boy, does he leave an impression! Presenting WHEN EVIL LURKS—a story that peels away from standard ghostly tales to lay bare the authentic terrors of a community facing impending calamity. This film seized my attention from the outset, creating ripples of intrigue and just the right amount of discomfort.

At the heart of the narrative are two unsuspecting brothers leading a simple life on an overlooked farm on the community's outskirts. Their tranquility is shattered one fateful night by mysterious gunshots. An odyssey into the unknown follows, drawing them to a crumbling home. There, they encounter a mother and her two children, with mysteries seemingly ensnared by ominous entities.

With WHEN EVIL LURKS, Rugna creates an immersive horror experience. By seamlessly blending the raw energy of European horror tales with classic dark tales of terror, he ensures the audience isn't merely a spectator—they're a participant. Our lead duo, Pedro (Ezequiel Rodríguez) and Jimi (Demián Salomón) aren't your run-of-the-mill heroes either. As they navigate the treacherous waters of looming evil, the audience is thrust into a whirlwind of concealed truths and nerve-wracking incidents.

Passion shines through, even with occasional blips in the narrative. Yes, WHEN EVIL LURKS has moments where it loses pace, especially toward the ending. The tale, steeped in rich horror lore, refreshingly sidesteps the overused skeptic narrative pervasive in contemporary horror. Ultimately, it was a victory for Rugna and his career.

While not shying away from pushing boundaries, WHEN EVIL LURKS presents quite the gauntlet to traverse, including possessed youngsters and unsettling nods to cannibalistic tendencies. Every frame is designed to jolt and unsettle, making every heartbeat palpable.

From an aesthetic perspective, the film is a visual symphony for horror buffs. Stellar makeup and digital visuals make for a beautiful, horror-filled treat. Admittedly, a touch less melodrama in acting and a hint more finesse in pacing would have elevated the experience.

WHEN EVIL LURKS stands as a glowing emblem of Rugna's unwavering passion for the horror genre, it's not merely a movie; it's an expedition into authentic horror and a visceral experience that promises to linger. Something inherently unsettling about this film-watching experience as a whole will stick with you for some time.

For more reviews, please visit – https://linktr.ee/Overlyhonestmoviereviews for more info.

Follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Find my social media accounts on most platforms simply by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of IFC FILMS, SHUDDER]

MY SAG-AFTRA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

#SAGAFTRA #SAGAFTRAStrong